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Part of
Advances in Iranian Linguistics
Edited by Richard K. Larson, Sedigheh Moradi and Vida Samiian
[Current Issues in Linguistic Theory 351] 2020
► pp. 29–56

Chapter 3
A multi-dimensional approach to classification of Iran’s languages

The enterprise of classification is central to the construction of a language atlas, particularly in the Iranian context. While existing two-dimensional models of language classification are useful as a starting point, they are ultimately incapable of handling some of the important complexities found in Iran’s language situation. To address these issues, we propose a multi-dimensional “language relation web”, based on a force-directed multigraph visualization, as an alternative model for expressing connections between language varieties. This architecture allows for differentiation and representation of multiple types of linkages, each of which constitutes a dimension of classification, in a single visualization: shared genealogical inheritance, structural similarity through contact, and association through ethnic identification. The resulting model provides new insights into the classification of Iran’s languages and raises questions and prospects for the broader classification process.

Keywords: language classification, language atlas, languages of Iran, Iranic (Iranian) languages, tree model, wave model, 3D models, multi-dimensional models, directed graph, force-directed multigraph visualization.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
    • 1.1Language mapping and atlases of Iran
    • 1.2The Atlas of the Languages of Iran (ALI)
    • 1.3The structure of this chapter
  • 2.An initial working classification of Iran’s languages
    • 2.1Inventory of language varieties
    • 2.2Construction of classification trees
    • 2.3Backgrounding assessments of ‘language’ vs ‘dialect’
    • 2.4Contribution and limitations of this initial classification
  • 3.Overview of existing language classification models
  • 4.A multi-dimensional language relation web for the languages of Iran
  • 5.Differentiation and visualization of links between language varieties
    • 5.1Linguistic relation through genealogical inheritance
    • 5.2Structural similarity through language contact
    • 5.3Association through ethnic identification
  • 6.Summary and prospects
  • Acknowledgements
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 22 July 2020
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/cilt.351.03ano
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